Sandals vs. Secrets – Sandals Resorts VS Secrets Resorts and Spas

If you begin researching luxurious adult-only, all-inclusive Caribbean resorts, you will surely come across Secrets and Sandals. These names are popular in the world of romantic getaways and honeymoons because both of them offer magnificent features for such occasions. However, in the question of Sandals vs. Secrets, things can get tricky since it is not easy to make a difference between the two. 

At first sight, both Sandals and Secrets may seem like resorts with the same characteristics. While they share a lot of traits, these resorts are far from the same! Namely, some differences make them unique, which is essential when making the final decision for your vacation. Once you figure out what makes these resorts distinct, you will be able to choose what is the most suitable for you. 

In this blog, I have created a careful Sandals vs. Secrets comparison to help you pinpoint which option best suits you. Taking into account several factors, I have created a clear distinction that will allow you to find your next vacation destination and plan the trip of your dreams! 

Sandals vs. Secrets: Which One Is Better? 

If you are planning a memorable vacation, you will want to do it the right way! That means finding a miraculous location, picking an all-inclusive Caribbean resort with exquisite services, and opting for activities that will allow you to truly relax and have fun. When looking for exotic spots and luxurious accommodations, you will not go wrong by picking either Secrets or Sandals resorts. These brands are known for their sophisticated amenities and unique features that will make your trip dreamy! 

However, certain traits make these resorts different, and you will want to know them before making the final decision. You are about to plan a trip to remember and spend a lot of money on it, meaning you should choose carefully. In short, you should figure out what you want from your getaway in order to pick the resort that meets all your requirements. 

To find the best one for you, you must compare the two brands, taking into account specific factors that distinguish them. I have made things easier for you and discussed those factors below. Going through the factors of Sandals vs Secrets will lead you to the ideal resort for your getaway! 

Sandals Resort Locations & Secrets Resorts Locations

If you are looking for a place in the Caribbean, then you can find accommodation provided by both Secrets and Sandals. These brands have properties all around the Caribbean Islands, boasting breathtaking scenery and stunning views. 

However, when it comes to the number of resorts found in these places, Secrets Resorts and Spas has more properties in the Caribbean. The brand has several hotels in the Mediterranean as well. This makes the Secrets Resorts more accessible to travelers and creates more opportunities for people traveling around the world. In other words, with its properties in many locations, Secrets allows you to pick your ideal spot more easily. 

To be more specific, Secrets has 21 beachfront locations, with 12 in Mexico, 1 in Costa Rica, 2 in the Dominican Republic, 2 in Jamaica, 1 in St. Martin, and 3 in Spain. On the other hand, there are 17 Sandals resorts in the Caribbean, including 6 in Jamaica, 2 in the Bahamas, 3 in St. Lucia, 2 in Barbados, 1 in Grenada, 1 in Curacao, 1 in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and 1 in Antigua.

Nonetheless, you can always count on splendid beaches for both brands. When choosing between Sandals vs Secrets, you can be confident that your chosen hotel will come with a fascinating, pristine beachfront. 

Sandals and Secrets Hotel Accommodations

Sandals and Secrets accommodations both have their special appeal. Namely, the rooms and suites they offer are each unique and authentic on their own, and they will undoubtedly take your breath away when you see them. Both brands have strived to depict the best of the beachfront opportunities, meaning they will not disappoint you! 

Sandals Resorts Hotel Options

When it comes to Sandals Caribbean Beach Resorts and its accommodation options, you can count on many ways to make your stay dreamy and unforgettable. You are in for a treat at every Secrets Resort with the option to upgrade to the Preferred Club! This fantastic upgrade gives you access to more room choices and special perks like top-shelf drinks in your minibar, a private lounge, extra attentive concierge service, and access to an exclusive pool at select locations.

Sandals is widely known for its most prestigious services and friendly staff in each location. Whatever type of room you pick, you should not worry about the level of service you will receive because it will be exquisite. The resort family takes great pride in the standards it has established and for which it is famous, meaning you do not need to doubt the level of care you will be provided with. 

To be more specific, each Sandals Resorts has a great variety of room and suite options. They have everything from ultra-luxurious suites like the Millionaire Butler Villa at Sandals Regency La Toc to overwater bungalows with and without private plunge pools. Moreover, you may want to check out the Skypool Suites with awesome elevated infinity-edge plunge pools that overlook the ocean, Beachfront Rondoval Suites with private plunge pools, and even Ocean View Penthouses.

Each of these accommodations includes luxurious and modern designs and great spaciousness. Whatever you book for your stay, you will surely not be disappointed. As you can see, you have an abundance of options, and there is certainly something for every taste. It is up to you to pick the traits you need for a perfect accommodation, and you can pack for the holiday of your dreams! 

Secrets Resorts Hotel Options

At Secrets Resorts and Spas, the rooms and suites come in different types depending on the location. But they are all super modern and fancy, so you should not worry about the lack of luxurious design. When you book your stay at Secrets, you get 24-hour room service and concierge service, a private balcony or terrace, and a big tub for two. Plus, each room has a minibar with beer, soft drinks, and water that’s restocked daily. 

This means that your accommodation will have everything you need for a nice and relaxing time. Do not forget that during your vacation, everything should be about resting and having fun, so you need resorts that offer you exquisite services. 

Depending on the Secrets resort you pick, you will have different room options to choose from. There are Junior Suites with views of the ocean, pool, or tropical scenery, and they all come with private balconies, big soaking tubs, and full bathrooms with two rain showers. These are rooms that include luxurious features without compromising your privacy. 

You can also opt for swim-out suites, including bungalow suites right by the ocean. For those who want the perfect honeymoon, there are suites with separate living rooms and a private terrace with a hot tub for two, or you can have swim-out access.  

But, if you are feeling fancy, there are Presidential Suites with spacious living rooms, separate dining areas with a kitchenette and bar, his and her showers, and a whirlpool for two. Plus, they come with a private balcony that has a plunge pool. This is an ideal option for those who want to make the best out of their vacation and take advantage of all the services Secrets offers! 

What is there to do at Sandals and Secrets Resorts?

One of the best things about all-inclusive packages is that they come with a bunch of cool stuff to make your vacation more fun. Between Sandals vs Secrets, you and your loved one can enjoy special services, amenities, activities, and entertainment that are designed to give you an awesome experience.

What’s included at Sandals Resorts?

Sandals resorts have a bunch of fun things to do. The activities might differ depending on which resort you go to, but every Sandals has free water sports like snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking, Hobie Cat sailing, and scuba diving. And some places even have extra things to do, such as water skiing, tubing, and wakeboarding. 

You can also count on on-site coaches who will help you enjoy these sports properly. For instance, you will get scuba diving lessons so you can take full advantage of the activity. In several locations, surfing lessons are also available, allowing you to ride the waves and have quite the adrenaline rush. 

Nonetheless, if you are not a fan of watersports, you will still have the chance to stay active during your stay. At Sandals Caribbean Beach Resorts, you can enjoy lots of land sports like beach volleyball, bocce ball, basketball, pool tables, and an amazing fitness center with exercise classes. In addition, this resort brand is famous for offering free golf, so if this is something you want to enjoy during your getaway, you may benefit from choosing Sandals.

Moreover, I should not forget to mention that these resorts also have something for those who do not want to be really adventurous during their stay. Sandals also has full-service Red Lane Spas that offer a range of sophisticated treatments that will allow you to relax fully during your holiday.

What’s Included at Secrets Resorts?

Secrets Resorts is a place where its activities will give you a blast! There are so many fun things to choose from, such as beach volleyball, snorkeling, paddleboarding, dancing, tennis, and more. If you want something more relaxing and unique, then you can consider taking yoga. Or, if you are feeling like learning new things during your vacation, you may even take into account Spanish classes. 

The resort chain is all about standing out with its options! So, some locations even offer cool stuff like mountain biking, rum, wine, or tequila tastings, cooking and mixology classes, water aerobics, water polo, and minigolf. Your stay in the resort can be quite diverse, and each day can bring something new. 

Lastly, each Secrets Resort and Spa has a fantastic fitness center and awesome swimming pools, including infinity edge and river pools. Naturally, if you want to have a day for yourself, get pampered at the wellness centers across the resort. So much fun awaits you, so you can count on unforgettable experiences! 

All Inclusive Resorts Bars and Dining (Sandals Dining VS Secrets Dining)

Dining is another important factor in the choice of your vacation resort. You will spend days in the hotel you pick, so good food and drinks are crucial. When it comes to Sandals vs Secrets and their food options, there is nothing to worry about! Both resorts are excited to offer an extensive range of gourmet dining options and bars, ensuring that guests have a delightful gastronomic experience.

Sandals Resorts Restaurants Included

At Sandals Resorts, you will find a wide range of bar experiences to enjoy. From relaxing swim-up bars to lively British pubs, elegant piano bars to vibrant nightclubs, and sophisticated martini bars to charming beach bars, there is something to suit every mood. In addition, the all-inclusive Caribbean resorts also offer unique dining and bar options, such as overwater bars and restaurants and the convenience of poolside food trucks.

When it comes to cuisine, Sandals can fit a variety of tastes across its different locations. You can savor a diverse array of culinary delights, including Italian, Jamaican, Japanese, steakhouse, sushi, international, pizza, French haute cuisine, French coffee and pastries, fresh local seafood, local dishes, Indian, Thai, and Pan-Asian. In other words, whatever you can imagine, it can be found in the restaurants across Sandals hotels. This means that even the pickiest eaters can find something that suits them! 

Let’s not forget that Sandals has also thought about ambiance and settings. The dining experiences are equally impressive, with open-air, beachfront, and waterfront restaurants available to provide stunning settings for your meals. If you prefer a more private dining experience, in-room dining is also an option, ensuring that you can take advantage of delicious meals in the comfort of your own room. 

Secrets Resorts What Restaurants Are Included?

At Secrets Resorts and Spas, you can enjoy a stress-free dining experience with 24-hour room service. The food spans different cuisines, including Jamaican, Mediterranean, Mexican, and Pan-Asian. Unlike Sandals, the Secrets Resorts do not have over-the-water dining spots or food trucks. Still, the dining spots are impressive, with open-air, waterfront, and beachfront options. 

You will also find various bars like beach bars, sports bars, and exclusive wine cellars, such as the one at Secrets The Vine in Cancun. Plus, most places have a coffee shop. This means that you will never lack any of the commodities you may have at home. You can begin your day with a nice cup of coffee and end it with a fine glass of wine. The experiences are unparalleled! 

Sandals vs. Secrets: Cost Inclusions – What do you get for the price?

The reason why people love all-inclusive Caribbean resorts is because they pay for everything beforehand so they do not have to worry about budget during their vacation. However, an all-inclusive resort does not always mean that the prices include everything related to your travels. Sometimes certain fees are not covered by the price you will pay, meaning you will have to count on additional costs. 

Therefore, it is wise to inform yourself of everything in advance so you are not surprised a few days before your trip. Regarding Sandals vs Secrets, several differences distinguish these brands from one another in terms of prices and costs. 

Stay at Sandals: What Is Included?

Sandals has always claimed that it offers more perks than any other resort in the world. These perks include fancy dining at a bunch of restaurants and cafés, free unlimited drinks, even the fancy stuff, and a minibar that gets restocked every day with all kinds of drinks. They also have coffee makers in the rooms with that fancy Jamaican Blue Mountain Blend coffee.

When it comes to activities, you can go snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking, or similar things, and have a pro to guide you if you are a rookie. Moreover, you can even go scuba diving even if you do not have any equipment since the hotel can provide all the gear.

What is more, there is always something happening during the day and at night for entertainment. Plus, you will have access to land sports like golf and tennis. In addition, these resorts come with exquisite fitness centers, airport transfers, and even private lounges at some spots.

The best part of a stay at Sandals is that tips, taxes, and gratuities are all part of the all-inclusive rate. This means that the first price you see for a specific resort will include every single detail of your trip. The family chain has always strived to provide its guests with royal treatment and has never failed to accomplish that!

Stay at Secrets: What Is Included?

At Secrets Resorts, like in most all-inclusive resorts, you will enjoy unlimited extraordinary dining at different restaurants, along with endless nonalcoholic and fancy alcoholic drinks. Moreover, you will be provided with 24-hour room service, a stocked mini-bar, and free WiFi. Pools and beach services, lots of entertainment options, water sports, a full fitness center, and even golf and tennis in some locations are also part of the all-inclusive package.  

When you look at this comparison, you might not see any differences between Sandals and Secrets. However, you should know that airport transfers are not included in the price. This means that you will have to find your transportation and pay for it. Also, you may need to tip for the services during your stay since they are not part of the initial cost. 

What Are Best Ranked Sandals Resorts? 

If you have decided to go to a Sandals resort for your vacation, you may want to know which of these hotels are considered best. The most convenient way to figure out which of them is the best is to look at the rankings. Below, I have included the best Sandals Resorts in the Caribbean that will not let you down if you choose them. 

Sandals Grande St. Lucian Resort & Spa, Gros Islet, St. Lucia

Sandals Grande St. Lucian Spa and Resort is known as the most stunning hotel in the Caribbean. The location is absolutely breathtaking, and the services they offer are extraordinary. It is the ideal spot for romantic getaways and relaxing retreats. That is why a lot of newlyweds choose it for their unforgettable honeymoon trips. 

Also, this place has lots of different restaurants, fun things to do, and great amenities. Plus, you can do some awesome diving in the Caribbean! The best part is that you can use the free shuttle to visit other Sandals resorts in St. Lucia so that you can have various experiences during your trip. 

At Sandals Grande St. Lucian, you can choose to relax or go on some cool adventures. If you are all about chilling out, you can treat yourself to some amazing spa treatments at the Red Lane Spa. But if you are more into action, you can try out activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, or diving.

Sandals Royal Barbados, Oistins, Barbados

Looking for the top Sandals resort in Barbados? Look no further than Sandals Royal Barbados! It is the newest addition to the Sandals family, and it is located in St. Lawrence Gap, offering amazing surroundings, stunning views, and unique experiences. 

What is cool about this place is that it has a four-lane bowling alley, a rooftop pool, and two new dining options. Definitely makes your stay more fun and memorable! Plus, you can enjoy all the amenities of the adjacent Sandals Barbados, including 17 restaurants, 5 pools, and 12 bars. Whether you are into relaxation or adventure, Sandals Royal Barbados has got you covered for an unforgettable vacation.

If you are looking for a trip that offers a lot of different options, choosing this resort could be one of the best choices you will ever make. Exploring Barbados in luxury and with sophisticated amenities will give you a holiday you’ll never forget!

Sandals Grande Antigua, St. Johns, Antigua 

If you are planning a vacation in Antigua, you definitely should not miss out on the best Sandals resort there! Sandals Grande Antigua is truly one of the most incredible hotels in the Caribbean, offering tons of luxurious amenities and outstanding services. But what sets this resort apart is the absolutely stunning views that will take your breath away!

Sandals Grande Antigua is a beautiful resort that has been recognized multiple times as the “World’s Most Romantic Resort.” It’s situated on the gorgeous Dickenson Bay in northwest Antigua and is one of the most highly praised Sandals resorts. It is an all-inclusive, adults-only place that is perfect for couples looking for a romantic getaway.

If you are striving for a one-stop destination that offers everything, Sandals Grande Antigua is the perfect choice! Whether it is luxury or convenience, this hotel has got you covered! You can choose to stay in charming cottages in the original beachfront Caribbean Grove or opt for stylish suites in the poolside Mediterranean Village. Both options offer elegant rooms with comfy king-sized beds and modern flat-screen TVs.

What Are Best Ranked Secrets Resorts? 

If you have set your sights on a certain Secrets Resort and Spa for your vacation, you might be curious to know which ones are the top picks. Similarly to Sandals, this resort chain has been a favorite among people around the world, and its hotels have been ranked in various ways. Here are some that are considered among the best. 

Secrets Maroma Beach, Riviera Cancun

When looking for an awesome place in Mexico, you should check out Secrets Maroma Beach. It is an adults-only resort located on Maroma Beach, which is considered one of the best beaches in the world. This is one of the best hotels in the Secrets family, so choosing it for your vacation will not be a mistake! 

You can chill on the beach, do some snorkeling, or take part in activities like archery and sunrise kayak tours. The resort has two big pools, outdoor hot tubs by the sea, and even swim-out access from some suites. With over 400 suites to choose from, you can enjoy amazing views of the Caribbean Sea.

Secrets Royal Beach, Punta Cana

This amazing Secrets resort in the Dominican Republic is perfect for couples! Secrets Royal Beach is located on the eastern end of the country and is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes and surroundings. Just imagine – swaying palm trees, beautiful blue waters – it’s like stepping into a dream!

If you want to truly relax, the resort has two big pools where you can just unwind or mingle with other guests. Plus, they have this amazing spa called Secrets Spa by Pevonia. It is enormous, and it has everything from a sauna and steam room to a hydrotherapy circuit and a salon.

Moreover, Secrets Royal Beach has seven different restaurants serving everything from Mediterranean and Mexican to French and Pan-Asian cuisine. Plus, there are 11 unique bars, including three swim-up bars. 

Secrets Akumal, Riviera Maya

Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya is a fantastic place to stay in Cozumel. It is right on a gorgeous sandy beach, perfect for swimming and diving in the calm Caribbean waters. This is an ideal resort for relaxing and recharging your batteries. Moreover, it is a great place for new experiences since it includes a lot of extraordinary amenities and activities. 

When you are not taking in the beach vibes, you can explore the Belize Barrier Reef, which is the second-largest barrier reef in the world and is home to a large population of sea turtles. This is your chance to become friends with these cute creatures and swim with them. On the resort grounds, you can enjoy three swimming pools and two outdoor hot tubs. In addition to water activities, there are other options like tennis, CrossFit, dance classes, and even cocktail-making lessons.

The abundance of activities present in the Secrets Akumal has made this place a real heaven for people who enjoy paradise-like vacations. The breathtaking surroundings plus the luxurious services make this place an irreplaceable sanctuary for a real vacation!